Owning a dog is a joy, privilege, and responsibility. If you are considering bringing an English Springer Spaniel into your life, think seriously about the commitment that being a responsible dog owner entails. Below are some important considerations.

• Recognize the commitments including financial, emotional and time commitments.
• Evaluate you and your family’s lifestyles.
• Get referrals for responsible and ethical breeders
• Find a mentor. Ask questions.
• Make the transition to your home a smooth one. Buy food, a collar, a leash, toys, brushes, a dog bed, a crate ahead of their arrival.
• Provide food, water, walks, exercise, clean-up and grooming. Feed your dog a healthy diet. Keep your Springer fit and trim.
• Select a veterinarian. Set up vaccination and check-up schedules.
• Introduce your Springer to your family and to other pets.
• Potty train your Springer and set up house rules.
• Put an ID on your dog’s collar. A registered microchip provides added protection for lost dogs.
• Keep your Springer safe in the car by using a travel safe crate or seat belt harness.
• Make an emergency kit. Keep the essentials and the number of an emergency clinic before an emergency occurs.
• Establish a list of emergency contacts that can keep your Springer if necessary.
• Play, take walks, rotate toys. Teach basic commands such as sit, down, off, go to your kennel or crate. Socialize and praise your Springer.
• Supervise play with kids.
• Take your Springer to obedience classes. Never let them off their leash until they can master a recall.
• Get involved. Join a local English Springer Spaniel club, ESSFTA. Check out and participate in an AKC activity.
• Have fun and enjoy your new family member!

For more tips and information on raising an English Springer Spaniel, check out the information in the AKC Pupdate at Pupdate – American Kennel Club.